Sweco Belgium
Full lifecycle design: essential for laboratory design
Laboratories are among the most complex types of buildings. They must comply with stringent technical requirements, keep pace with rapidly evolving advanced research and sustainability targets, and provide a comfortable and safe environment for users. Whether constructing a new laboratory or transforming an existing one, the investment is significant, particularly in sectors driven by continuous innovation. In-depth experience and knowledge of the full laboratory project lifecycle not only bring technical, sustainability and comfort ambitions together, but also optimise investment by focusing firmly on long-term value.
Flexibility and modularity: a strategic choice
Advanced research evolves faster than conventional buildings can adapt. New equipment, changes in processes and evolving safety requirements mean laboratories must be reconfigured quickly, efficiently and with minimal cost. Flexibility is therefore the cornerstone of contemporary laboratory design. Through modular layouts, standardised dimensions and future-ready technical principles, our experts ensure laboratories remain adaptable and high-performing over the long term, without the need for major refurbishments.
A full lifecycle approach from day one
A future-proof laboratory starts with a clear definition of scope: the type of research, potential developments, and functional requirements in both the short and long term. Our laboratory design consultants are therefore involved from the very first discussions, helping to define the scope precisely and safeguarding the key design principles throughout every phase of the project, from concept and design to construction and handover. A full lifecycle approach delivers coherence and transparency, while maintaining firm control over budget, programme and quality. Making this approach the guiding principle from the outset is essential.
Digitalisation: the backbone of the process
Digitalisation underpins every stage of laboratory design. Using BIM, we integrate architecture, building services and laboratory fit-out into a single coordinated model. This allows potential clashes to be identified early in the design phase and enables both clients and design teams to make well-informed decisions. Visualisations and VR applications give users and stakeholders a realistic impression of the future laboratory during the design stage, improving decision-making and strengthening engagement.
Sustainability in an energy-intensive environment
Although laboratories are inherently energy-intensive, they also offer significant opportunities to achieve tangible sustainability goals. Intelligent zoning, efficient building services and a flexible technical concept align energy consumption closely with actual usage. By prioritising adaptability throughout the entire lifecycle, premature demolition is avoided and a circular approach to construction is actively supported.
Wellbeing: an integral part of a high-performing laboratory
Performance and technology go hand in hand with user wellbeing. Careful consideration of daylight, ergonomics, acoustics and clear sightlines contributes to safe, comfortable working environments. A well-designed laboratory not only enhances research efficiency, but also improves the wellbeing, satisfaction and engagement of the people who work there every day.
Experience as the connecting factor
Bringing together sustainability, modularity, digitalisation and wellbeing requires an integrated vision and many years of experience. By approaching laboratory design from a full lifecycle perspective, laboratories are created that perform effectively today and can continue to evolve tomorrow.
Exilab, part of Sweco, strengthens this approach. Exilab specialises in the design, engineering and delivery of laboratories through a multidisciplinary methodology. By combining technical expertise across a wide range of laboratory types with modular design and in-depth engineering, we deliver future-proof laboratories for sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare and education.
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